How to Overcome Nerves & Stage Fright

There are many symptoms of nerves and stage fright, but you can overcome most of them.

Nerves and stage fright are normal and can happen to anyone. It doesn't matter how many times you have done something, you can still get nervous. Most of the time you get nervous when doubt or worry creeps into your mind. This can cause you to lose focus, have a quivering voice, make your mind go blank, and have other physical symptoms. Fortunately, there are ways to help you cope with nerves and stage fright so that your performance won't suffer.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Prepare yourself as much as possible for whatever you are doing. Nothing is better than preparation. You will probably still get nervous when performing, but that is natural. If you are well prepared, then that is one less thing that you have to worry about.

2. Practice going through your routine early and often. Whether you are playing music onstage or giving a speech, you should practice as if you are in front of a crowd. Ask family or friends to listen and watch you because sometimes you'll get more nervous in front of them, than in front of a crowd of people you don't know.

3. Be familiar with the place where you will be performing. If you aren't allowed to go to the actual place, then just imagine being there when you practice. When you are familiar with the place where you perform, then that will reduce the nerves and stage fright when you actually get there.

4. Get plenty of sleep the night before the performance. When you are well-rested, your mind is sharper, so you will feel more confident. Don't overexert yourself the night before or the day of your performance. It is just as important to have your body as prepared as your mind.

5. Stay focused and be confident in your preparation time. Even when you are performing, if you make a mistake, don't panic and trust yourself to finish strong. If you start thinking about being perfect, then you will be more likely to get nervous and make a mistake.

6. Don't let the audience size intimidate you. Whether you are performing to a large or small audience, it is easy to get nervous. In most cases, the audience is there just to have fun and enjoy the performance. They won't be too critical of you, so you shouldn't be either.

7. Stop worrying about everything and just have fun. You know you have done the preparation and practice, so all you have to do is perform. Having fun will make you more relaxed and confident, so you will be able to handle your nerves and stage fright much easier.

References

• Bloomingdale School of Music: Conquering Stage Fright
• Mind Fully Well: Performance Nerves and Anxiety